Que Onda Magazine celebrated its 32nd anniversary with the annual Fiesta Mexicana, joining in the festivities of Hispanic Heritage Month. The event paid tribute to the magazine’s founders of Mexican roots while honoring prominent Hispanic community leaders and offering art performances and lively cultural traditions.
“Que Onda is in touch with the community, they know what’s happening, whether it’s social media or the paper. Tune in to Que Onda; they’re a great organization,” said Houston City Council Member District I, Joaquin Martinez, reflecting on the magazine’s long-standing community presence.
The evening also brought together members of the legal and public service sectors. Harris County Criminal Court Judge Erika Ramirez, Criminal Court at Law No. 4, recalled, “I remember going to restaurants as a young child and seeing those magazines there and flipping through the pages. I’m honored to be a Latina and be here to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.”
Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez joined the celebration, saying, “I’m here joining my friends at Que Onda Magazine, Gabriel Esparza and his family, as we celebrate a special occasion, Fiestas Patrias.” Meanwhile, Judge Raul Rodriguez of Harris County Criminal Court at Law No. 13 praised the magazine’s dedication: “Que Onda Magazine has been in business for over 30 years. It serves the Hispanic community here in Houston. We are very grateful for all the hard work that Que Onda Magazine has done. They help and represent the Latino and Hispanic community.”
The Fiesta Mexicana, held Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025, from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Junior League of Houston (1811 Briar Oaks Ln), featured a full evening of celebration. The night kicked off with a VIP reception hosted by ABC13 anchor Erik Barajas, followed by an award ceremony recognizing community leaders. Performances by Mariachi Reyes de Mexico, singer Liliana Elizondo, and ballet folklórico Corazones Alegres brought the crowd together for a vibrant celebration of Mexican culture, culminating with the traditional El Grito Mexicano.
Founded in 1993 by Mexican immigrants Lilia Esparza and the late Jose G. Esparza, Que Onda Magazine became Houston’s first Spanish-language magazine and has grown into a successful bilingual magazine over the past 32 years. Supported by sponsors and media partners such as ABC13, the magazine continues to engage the community through print, digital, and social platforms.
Que Onda Magazine remains committed to highlighting stories of perseverance and success that reflect the heart of Houston’s Latino community. This Hispanic Heritage Month, the publication reaffirmed its mission to give voice to Latinos, preserving traditions, cultural pride, and roots for generations to come.